Stimulus promises not kept

In the recent weeks President Barack Obama has pushed and signed legislation for several major economic acts. The main bill is the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

The bill has received much criticism, with little to no support from the Republicans. In the process of forming the bill, Obama promised to refrain from having legislative earmarks in the bill.

Most analysts say this promise was not kept. Although some earmarks were for worthy projects, such as funding to build the Flight 93 Memorial, both Republicans and Democrats have used this bill as a way to get money for their own mindless agendas. For starters, money was given to combat bullying. Money was also directed to battle swine odor in Iowa, and federal tax dollars were allocated for grape research. This reckless spending is careless and shows that Obama did not keep his promise to the American people. Creating jobs and spending where it is needed is acceptable, but allowing these earmarks to go through is blasphemy.

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Also, the government purchased 36 percent of Citibank and has a stake in AIG. This was not a bad thing, necessarily, except for the fact that the action has shades of Communism. Yes, Communism, not even Socialism. When the government controls companies and corporations, the only word to describe it is Communism. What will happen to our country if the government controls the failing auto industry? Our government will have a monopoly on American commerce and business.

Now, I do not believe Barack Obama is a bad President. It is too soon to tell, and this is an unprecedented crisis. He needs time in order to create the change he promised. I believe he receives too much praise from the Democrats and too much criticism from the Republicans. The American people and politicians need to stay objective but still support the President, regardless of party. America needs unity, especially at this time of crisis.